Apple has launched an investigation into reports some of their new iPhone 8 Plus handsets are bursting open while charging.

Amid suggestions of a possible battery issue, two iPhone 8 Plus owners - one in Taiwan and one in Japan - have shared pictures showing the screen splitting away from the body of the phone on social media , reports The Mirror .

Chinese media sites reported the Taiwanese customer saying her iPhone burst open despite being charged with an official Apple power adapter. The handset has been returned to Apple for investigation.

Apple confirmed to Mirror Online that it is aware of the issue and is looking into it.

It is not yet clear what caused the damage, but there is no evidence of overheating. Rather, it appears that the batteries may have swelled due to the gases inside.

The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus went on sale on 22 September, featuring a new glass and aluminium design, an A11 "Bionic" chip and wireless charging.